Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG), a research and teaching institution focusing on public policy in the Arab world, is set to host a series of thought leadership sessions titled ‘Dubai Smart Cities Forum’.

The forum will bring together industry experts and specialists to share expertise, discuss challenges, and review best practices as part of joint efforts towards realizing the Dubai Smart City Initiative. The sessions are designed to update government officials and decisions makers with the latest developments in smart city projects. The opening session of the forum will be held on 18 June, 2014 at MBRSG premises.

The agenda will examine local and international trends, as well as the challenges and opportunities in integrating technology into sectors such as urban planning, transport, services and infrastructure.

Dr Ali Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President, Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government, said, “The primary objective of the Dubai Smart Cities Forum is to effectively contribute towards shaping a global smart city right here in Dubai. At MBRSG, we are keen to help achieve the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, towards achieving a smart city. Our efforts are in line with the directives and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, who oversees the Dubai Smart City Project. Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government is keen to evolve the prototype of a global smart city and leverage expert advice from around the world in developing a model that sets a new world benchmark.”

He added, “We have several factors working in our favor – the political will of the leadership, the emirate’s ultra-modern infrastructure, as well as its technical and logistical capacities. The smart city project will have a significant impact on the operations of government and private sector institutions. Future plans cannot be limited to technology and applications, and call for multiple strategies that factor in any change in organization, IT systems and security. Each strategy should focus on benefiting all users – Dubai’s citizens, residents and service providers.”

The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government is committed to promoting good governance through enhancing the region’s capacity for effective public policy. The School uses a four-pronged approach, which includes applied research in public policy and management, academic programs in public policy and administration, executive education programs and knowledge forums for scholars and policy makers.